I am attempting to start a sweater with a gauge of 17 stitches per 4 inches using size 8 needles per the pattern. My local yarn shop did not have the yarn stated in the pattern, but suggested a substitute yarn that I ended up purchasing. I have stitched up 3 gauge swatches using size 8, 9 and now 10 needles, but I keep getting 19 stitches per 4 inches. Am I crazy? How can this keep happening? Do I need different yarn or different hands? Thanks for any insight.

suzeeq

09-25-2009, 12:09 AM

Different yarn. The stuff they sold you is probably too thin to get that gauge with. What yarn is it?

ckolsen

09-25-2009, 12:29 AM

The yarn I bought is "KIM extra light yarn" and the yard from the pattern is Knit One Crochet Too 2nd Time Cotton. Both are cotton/acrylic and the KIM gauge says 19 stitches/4in with "7-8" needles. I just can't believe I'm still getting 19 stitches with size 10 needles. I'm afraid my stitches will start to look too loose if I keep moving up in needles.

suzeeq

09-25-2009, 12:40 AM

I think it's too thin a yarn to get the pattern gauge. Though this site (http://www.bonniesspinningwheel.com/site/454931/product/216-1001%20227%20-%2009) calls it a worsted and the gauge is 5 st/inch or 7-8, which explains the 19sts/4" gauge. The Knit One yarn seems to be a bit thicker.